Introduction to Heat Rate Improvement

Plant Efficiency Define the term heat rate and describe how the heat rate for a typical generating unit can be determined. Explain why a units net heat rate is higher than its gross heat rate. Define the term design heat rate and explain why a units design heat rate is generally difficult to attain. Describe how efficiency is normally expressed and list typical generating unit and component efficiencies. Unit vs. Component Efficiency Describe how to determine unit and component efficiency. Overview of Responsibilities Describe how operators help maintain the efficient operation of a power plant. Describe how maintenance personnel contribute to the efficient operation of a power plant. Describe how engineers contribute to the efficient operation of a power plant.